From kayaking to deliver a parcel to travelling to Spain: A driver's life-changing journey

Pippa Hudson interviews Sixolile Nqeketo, delivery driver and Nic Vroom, Chief Operations Officer for DPD Laser.

Listen below.

In April, a Takealot delivery driver captured hearts and went viral for his extraordinary commitment to delivering a parcel.

Customers Warren and Nolizwi Hudson had ordered supplies for their small hospitality business in Tshani Village, nestled in the rural Wild Coast, about 20km north of Coffee Bay.

Reaching this remote location is no easy feat, but 29-year-old Sixolile Nqeketo was determined to ensure their order arrived.

When he encountered a substantial river blocking his path, he didn't back down.

Instead, he jogged downstream, rented a kayak, paddled across, and then ran along the beach to reach the village on foot, successfully delivering the parcel.

"It wasn't an easy decision, but one way or another, a delivery had to be made that day."

- Sixolile Nqeketo

His dedication has earned him widespread recognition from South Africans as a shining example of outstanding customer service and commitment.

However, the story didn’t end there.

Vroom says that at DPD Laser, they take pride in recognising and celebrating their drivers for their exceptional efforts, and Nqeketo was no exception.

To show their appreciation, Nqeketo was selected to travel to Spain, where he represented both South Africa and the company at the Geopost International Driver Excellence Awards, held at the Formula One track in Madrid.

Nqeketo says it was an unforgettable experience – driving on the left side of the road, being treated to a shopping spree and being immersed in new cultures.

"It was an opportunity for us to showcase that our drivers are the heroes in this story."

- Nic Vroom, Chief Operations Officer – DPD Laser

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.